Mama's Banana Muffins

New Recipe Blog!

2008-09-03T01:25:00.002-04:00

Follow me to The Sampler Girl's Recipe Book!

Baja Taco Blitz

2008-08-19T16:38:00.006-04:00

I picked up the new cookbook by Hungry Girl at the library this week and wow ~ lots of yummy recipes to try. I fixed the one for Baja Taco Blitz last night and it was d-lish. Below is the recipe from the cookbook but I adjusted it to 4 servings. I didn't use avocado (ick!) and cheated by using regular taco shells. Oh and I used a little olive oil to saute the chicken and sprinkled with garlic powder for flavor. MY these were good! DH loved every bite.

Baja Taco Blitz
2 small corn tortillas
4 ounces raw boneless skinless lean chicken breast, cut into strips
1/2 small onion, sliced
1/4 large red bell pepper, sliced
1/8 avocado (2 small slices)
1/2 cup chopped iceberg lettuce
2 T shredded fat-free cheese (cheddar or a blend)
2 T fat-free sour cream
1 T salsa
1 t cilantro

salt and black pepper, to taste

Spray pan with Pam and set stove to medium heat. Cook onion slices in the pan for 2 minutes. Add pepper slices to the pan and continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes until veggies are a little crisp. Remove veggies from the pan and place them in a bowl.

Cook chicken strips in the pan until cooked throughout and then add them to the bowl with the onions and peppers.

Heat toritillas in the pan for 20 seconds on each side. Remove and plate tortillas.

Season the onions, peppers and chicken to taste with salt and pepper, and then place them evenly into the center of each tortilla.

Place one slice of avocado on each tortilla. Finish by topping with lettuce, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro. Roll 'em up and enjoy!

Makes 1 serving.

Warm Potato Salad

2008-08-03T20:17:00.005-04:00

This is delicious recipe and a nice variation on potato salad. We loved this! Serve warm or at room temp.

Warm Potato Salad (a Nigella Lawson recipe)
1 package Baby Red potatoes
1/2 bunch finely chopped green onions
8 slices bacon
1 Tablespoon whole grain mustard
2 teaspoons white wine vinegar

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender to your liking, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and then cut in half. Cook bacon until crispy and drain on paper towel. (Nigella cooks the bacon in garlic infused oil but mine had expired so I didn't do that - just cooked bacon as normal with no oil and then did add garlic salt for flavor of garlic.) Put the potatoes in a large bowl and sprinkle over the green onions.

Combine the mustard and vinegar in a small bowl, and pour over the potatoes and green onions. Toss the salad to coat it with the dressing. Just before serving, sprinkle over the crumbled bacon.

Grilled Brie and Tomato on Crusty Bread

2008-08-03T20:12:00.007-04:00

This was yummy! I didn't add the butter; didn't think it needed it and I was right. Sorry the picture is blurry ~ I was hungry and hurrying with the camera :o)

Grilled Brie and Tomato on Crusty Bread (Tyler Florence recipe)
1 pint cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
6 (1/2-inch thick) slices crusty bread
1/2 pound brie, sliced thin

Heat the broiler. Put the cherry tomatoes onto a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and season them with salt and pepper. Broil them until they burst; set them aside.
Butter the bread on both sides and top each with several slices of brie. Broil until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. Top with the tomatoes. Serve immediately.

new cookbook!

2008-07-28T08:17:00.001-04:00

NEW! Picture is clickable to lead you to the info on Amazon about it!

Lemon Fried Rice

2008-07-28T08:04:00.000-04:00

Lemon Fried Rice

1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup butter
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen peas, thawed
2 tsp. grated lemon peel
1/8 tsp. hot pepper sauce
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
4 cups cold cooked rice
2 tbsp. soy sauce

1/2 tsp. salt

In a large nonstick skillet or wok, stir-fry onions and parsley in butter for 1 minute. Add the remaining ingredients; stir-fry for 4-6 minutes or until peas are tender and rice is heated through. Makes 8 servings.

Fresh Corn Muffins

2008-07-28T07:59:00.002-04:00

Fresh Corn Muffins

6 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg, lightly beaten

1. Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Place paper liners in a 12-cup muffin pan.

2. Heat 1 teaspoon of the oil in a medium skillet. Add the corn and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and cook over medium-high heat until barely tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then spread the corn onto a plate to cool slightly.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

4. Add the buttermilk, egg, and remaining oil to the dry ingredients and stir until blended. Then stir in the corn mixture.

5. Divide the batter among the muffin cups. Bake the muffins for about 16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Serve warm or at room temperature. Makes 1 dozen.

Tips: Choose ears of corn with bright green husks that are tightly closed. The ends of the corn silk should be golden brown, not pale -- an indication that the corn was picked too early.

To easily remove corn silk from the kernels, hold the ear in one hand and rub downward with a wet paper towel. To remove corn kernels for a salad or salsa, stand an uncooked ear in a shallow bowl and use a sharp, thin-bladed knife. For chowder, add another step: reverse the knife and run the dull side down the ear to press out the rest of the corn and its milk.

Chicken Tortilla Casserole

2008-07-28T07:54:00.001-04:00

Chicken Tortilla Casserole
1-2 cups Chicken Tenders, cooked and cubed
1 can Cream of Chicken Soup
1+ cup Sour Cream
1 can Diced Green Chiles
grated Cheddar Cheese
4-6 flour Tortillas, torn into pieces

Mix ingredients together, except tortillas. In an 8x8 pan, layer tortilla pieces, chicken mixture, tortilla pices, chicken mixture. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Top with more cheese and bake 5 minutes.

Pizza Caserole

2008-07-28T07:42:00.000-04:00

Pizza Casserole

1 lb. ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

1 green pepper, chopped

1 8 oz. pkg. spiral whole wheat pasta

2 cups tomato sauce

1/2 cup water

2 t. basil

1 t. oregano

1/2 t. garlic powder

1/4 t. sea salt

4 oz. sliced turkey pepperoni

8 oz. shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Brown meat, onion and green pepper in a skillet. Meanwhile, in a large pot, stir together tomato sauce, water, basil, oregano, garlic powder and salt. Bring this to a boil, then stir in pasta. Boil until pasta is tender. Stir in cooked meat and pepperoni. Combine well. Pour into a casserole dish. Top with cheese. Bake uncovered in a 350 degree oven for 25 minutes.

Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers

2008-07-28T01:23:00.000-04:00

Try their new CINNAMON or HONEY graham goldfish varieties ~ they're highly addicting!

Blueberry Cobbler

2008-07-24T21:04:00.001-04:00

Oh MY is this ever good. There's something about summer berries and this recipe is an awesome July treat to the soul. Enjoy!
Blueberry Cobbler recipe

Classic Potato Salad

2008-06-24T07:45:00.000-04:00

What's summer without potato salad? This recipe is yummy!

Classic Potato Salad

6-8 good sized red potatoes, cooked and cut in quarters with skin on!
1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dill
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 bunch green onions, chopped
4 hard-boiled eggs
paprika

Boil potatoes in salted water until done. Cool and set aside.
Mix next 8 ingredients in a large bowl.
Add potatoes.
Add chopped up eggs and onions; mix well.
Sprinkle paprika on top.

Chill at least 1 hour before serving.

Paula Deen's Beer Batter Fish N Chips

2008-06-23T09:14:00.000-04:00

Paula Deen's Beer Batter Fish and Chips

4 large baking potatoes, cut into French fry strips

Beer Batter

1 (12-ounce) bottle beer
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon House Seasoning, recipe follows

1 1/2 pounds cod fillets, skinned with bones removed, and fish cut diagonally into 1-inch-wide strips (5 to 6-inches long)

In a Dutch oven, heat oil to 375 degrees F.
Fry potatoes until golden brown, roughly 10 minutes removing with a slotted spoon or spider. Hold in low oven to keep warm while cooking the fish.
Preheat oven to 225 degrees F,

Batter: In a large bowl, pour in 1 bottle of beer. Sift 1 1/2 cups flour into the bowl, whisking in gently until just combined, stir in House Seasoning. Pat fish dry and season on both sides with salt and pepper and coat the fish in the beer batter. Dredge the pieces of fish in 1/2 cup of remaining flour and slide into oil as coated. Fry fish, turning over frequently, until deep golden and cooked through, 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet and keep warm in oven. Fry remaining fish in batches, returning oil to 375 degrees F between batches.
Serve fish with French fries.

House Seasoning: 1 cup salt 1/4 cup black pepper 1/4 cup garlic powder
Mix ingredients together and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

best spaghetti yet!

2008-06-16T22:53:00.000-04:00

Do you have a Trader Joes near you? If so, and you are in the mood for spaghetti and a very economical meal try this! Add Trader Joe brand spaghetti pasta to boiling water and cook to desired texture. Simmer Trader Joe brand Tomato and Basil Marinara Sauce in skillet with one bag of Trader Joe brand frozen Italian Style Meatballs. There are 13 in the package and they are soooooooooo good!

Cover the meatballs in the sauce; sprinkle in desired amounts of basil/garlic seasoning and onion powder and simmer for 20 minutes. Drain pasta and blend with sauce and meatballs in skillet. Pour mixture in round casserole to warm in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes or until your rolls are ready!

This was absolutely the best spaghetti I've made in a long while. The Trader Joe brand of these items was top quality and everything tasted as if it were homemade; the total was $6 for tonight's meal for 4 plus we have leftovers for tomorrow night. Can't beat it!

Diploma Sandwiches

2008-06-12T23:20:00.000-04:00

Great sandwich idea for any grade's graduation celebration!

Whip together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of seedless strawberry or raspberry jam. Lightly spread the mixture on flour tortilla or flat bread, then roll up each sandwich diploma style and tie on a ribbon made of Fruit by the Foot.

Makes 4 to 6 sandwiches.

Congrads!

Baked Flounder stuffed with Crabmeat

2008-06-10T11:59:00.000-04:00

Baked Flounder stuffed with Crabmeat
Dorothea Benton Frank recipe

8 flounder fillets
1/2 pound fresh crabmeat, picked through for shells
1/4 cup green pepper, finely chopped
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 cup oil
1 cup fine break crumbs
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
8 pats unsalted butter
8 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

Simmer peppers, onions, celery and garlic in oil until soft. Remove from heat. Add bread crumbs, eggs, pepper and parsley. Add crabmeat and toss with fork.
Place 3 tablespoons of stuffing into the middle of each fillet. Top each with a pat of butter and lemon juice. Close ends of fillet over middle and insert toothpick. Place in greased baking dish and bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes.
Serves 8.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

2008-06-09T20:47:00.000-04:00

Pick out your favorite oversized cookies — from a bakery, supermarket, or your recipe box. Press a scoop of slightly softened ice cream (pliable, but not melted) between the cookies. Roll the sides in sprinkles or chocolate chunks for the kids, candied ginger or chopped nuts for the grown-ups. Freeze on a tray until firm, then wrap tightly in waxed paper and stack in an airtight container. Make these sandwiches a week ahead — if you can resist the urge to sample them all!
~Country Living Magazine

Macaroni and Cheese ~ recipe for Julie!

2008-06-09T17:51:00.000-04:00

Ok, Julie ~ here's the Mueller's Macaroni and Cheese recipe that my grandmother makes every holiday or she isn't allowed in the house. LOL My brother and I fight over leftovers and well, it's goooooooooood! Enjoy. To answer your other question about the kosher salt in Katie Joel's banana bread recipe...I don't know ~ I figured if she called for kosher salt, best use it. If you tinker with it, let me know if table salt is ok.

Happy Cooking!

Tanya

Macaroni and Cheese
2 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dry mustard

1/4 tsp pepper
2-1/2 cups milk
2 tbsp Margarine or butter
2 cups shredded American or Cheddar cheese, divided
8 oz Mueller's Elbows (about 2 cups), cooked 5 minutes and drained

Directions
In medium saucepan combine flour, salt, dry mustard and pepper; stir in milk.
Add margarine.
Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium-high heat and boil 1 minute.
Remove from heat.
Stir in 1-3/4 cups cheese until melted.
Add elbows.
Pour into greased 2-quart casserole.
Sprinkle with reserved cheese.
Bake uncovered in 375 degree oven 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

National Doughnut Day ~ June 6th!

2008-06-06T10:35:00.000-04:00

That's right! It's the day to celebrate that glorious sweet doughy goodness so visit your local Krispy Kreme today and get your FREE donut. You have to ~ it's only right!

Here's some interesting facts about the yummy day...

National Doughnut Day
When : Always the first Friday in June
National Doughnut Day honors the Salvation Army "Lassies" of WWI. It is also used as a fund raiser for needy causes of the Salvation Army.

The original Salvation Army Doughnut was first served by Salvation Army in 1917. During WWI, Salvation Army "lassies" were sent to the front lines of Europe. These brave volunteers made home cooked foods, and provided a moral boost to the troops. Often, the doughnuts were cooked in oil inside the of the metal helmet of an American soldier. The American infantrymen were commonly called doughboys. Salvation Army lassies were the only women outside of military personnel allowed to visit the front lines. Lt. Colonel Helen Purviance is considered the Salvation Army's "first doughnut girl".

On National Doughnut Day, look to see if your local doughnut shop, or other organizations, are offering free donuts to solicit donations for the Salvation Army or for another needy cause. If you find them, please be generous.

Note: The word "Doughnut" is often shortened to "Donut. So, if you see the term National Donut Day, its the same day.
The origin of the term "Doughboy":
The term "Doughboy" was popular in referring to U.S. Army infantryman during World War I. American foot soldiers were occasionally called doughboys during the Civil War. The earliest references to the term, comes from the U.S-Mexican war.

The Origin of National Doughnut Day:
National Doughnut Day was established in 1938 by the Chicago Salvation Army to raise much-needed funds during the Great Depression, and to honor the work of World War I Salvation Army volunteers who prepared doughnuts and other foods for thousands of soldiers.

Nutty Banana Bread

2008-05-23T17:10:00.001-04:00

My new favorite cookbook is The Comfort Table by Katie Lee Joel. The recipes in it are mouth-watering and if you love cookbooks like me, then you'll want to get this one! I fixed her Nutty Banana Bread minus the nuts only because Ben always requests plain banana bread so next time I might try adding them and have him pick them out!

Nutty Banana Bread

2 cups all purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup canola oil

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup buttermilk

3 medium bananas, mashed

1/2 cup walnuts, finely minced (about 2 ounces)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9X5X3-inch loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a medium bowl, beat together sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla until well combined. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk in three additions. Gently stir in bananas and nuts.

Pour the batter into the loaf pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Carefullly turn out the loaf to finish cooling on a wire rack.

excellent issue!!!

2008-05-18T23:58:00.001-04:00

The June/July issue of Everyday with Rachael Ray magazine is 5 stars in my book ~ with shrimp recipes, grilling ideas, and so much more. I think it's my favorite issue yet. If you don't already subscribe, you might want to go out and get this one.

Chocolate Gooey Cookies

2008-05-16T10:27:00.000-04:00

These are perfect for a rainy day such as this. Happy Week-end!

Chocolate Gooey Cookies
1 (8-ounce) brick cream cheese, room temperature
1 stick butter, at room temperature
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (18-ounce) box moist chocolate cake mix

Powdered Sugar, for dusting

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg. Then beat in the vanilla extract. Beat in the cake mix. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up so that you can roll the batter into balls. Roll the chilled batter into tablespoon sized balls and then roll them in confectioner's sugar. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 minutes. The cookies will remain soft and gooey. Cool completely and sprinkle with more powdered sugar, if desired.

FREE Iced Coffee today at Dunkin Donuts. . .

2008-05-15T11:37:00.000-04:00

. . .10AM-10PM ~ get yours!!!

Strawberry Crostata

2008-05-14T16:09:00.001-04:00

Our nearby farmer's market reopened for the season last week and this Tuesday was my first visit; they had gorgeous strawberries which made Zack reach from his stroller and say "more!" They begged to be baked in a pie so I tweaked Ina Garten's recipe and yummmm!

Summer Fruit Crostata

For the Pastry

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 sticks cold unsalted butter, diced

6 Tablespoons ice water

For the Filling

1 generous amount of strawberries, sliced

1 Tablespoon flour

1 Tablespoon sugar

squeeze of 1/2 lemon

sprinkle of cinnamon

For the pastry, place the flour, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter. Pulse 12-15 times or until butter is the size of peas. With the motor running, add water to combine, but stop the machine just before the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface and roll into a disc. Wrap with wax paper and chill for at least an hour.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Roll pastry dough out into an 11-inch circle. Transfer to sheet pan or pie plate.

For the filling, combine strawberries, flour, sugar, cinnamon and lemon juice. Pour filling into pastry. Gently fold the edges of the dough up and over the filling. You won't be able to cover completely but that's the elegance of this rustic pie.

Bake for 20-30 minutes, depending on how you like your crust, soft or crisp.

A crostata is an Italian baked dessert tart, and a form of pie. It is traditionally prepared by folding the edges of the dough over the top of the fruit filling, creating a more "rough" look, rather than a uniform, circular shape. The fruit can be anything from apple to mixed berry to peaches.

free coffee!!!

2008-05-05T00:58:00.001-04:00

Hurry Up Chicken Pot Pie

2008-01-17T16:37:00.000-05:00

It's been snowing today so comfort food like this is a welcome friend. Yum!

Hurry Up Chicken Pot Pie
a Paula Deen recipe, tweaked to my liking

2 cups chopped cooked chicken breast (I cook the chicken with chopped onion, celery, salt and pepper, garlic powder and herbs)
1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots (I cut mine in thin coins)
1/2 cup frozen green peas
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper, optional
1 1/2 cups instant biscuit mix
1 cup milk
1/2 stick melted butter (I spray with Pam insted)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a greased 2-quart casserole, layer the chicken, carrots, and peas. Mix the soup, chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Pour over the layers. Stir together the biscuit mix and milk, and pour this over the casserole. Drizzle butter over the topping. Bake until the topping is golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes.

Buttermilk Roast Chicken

2008-01-12T19:29:00.000-05:00

Oh MY is this ever good! The recipe is another one from Nigella Lawson's new cookbook and such a keeper to enjoy over and over.

Buttermilk Roast Chicken

3lbs (12) drumsticks (I used a variety pack which included drumsticks, wings and thighs)
2 cups buttermilk (I used fat free)
1/4 cup + 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, bruised and skins removed
1 Tablespoon crushed peppercorns
1 Tablespoon kosher salt OR 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 Tablespoon maple syrup

Place the chicken pieces in a large freezer bag, and add the buttermilk and 1/4 cup of oil.

Add the garlic cloves to the bag with the crushed peppercorns and salt.

Sprinkle in the ground cumin and finally add the maple syrup, and then squish everything in the freezer bag around to mix the marinade and coat the chicken.

Leave the buttermilk-marinated chicken in the fridge ideally overnight or out of the fridge for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour. (I left in fridge for an hour.)

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Take the chicken pieces out of the bag, shaking off the excess marinade, and then arrange them in a roasting pan lined with foil.

Drizzle over the 2 remaining tablespoons of oil (I sprayed with a bit of Pam cooking spray), and then roast in the oven for about 30 minutes or until brown, even scorched in parts, and juicily cooked through.

Serves 6.

Banana *Chocolate Chip Muffins

2008-01-09T20:45:00.001-05:00

These muffins are out of this world!!! I am in love with Nigella's new cookbook and this recipe was the first I've tried so far. The batch makes 12 big muffins and they are absolutely wonderful. The recipe called for butterscotch OR chocolate chips and since I only had the latter, that was what I used. Oh MY are they yummy. So, you think I like them or what? Enjoy.

Banana *Butterscotch Muffins

1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 2/3 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups mashed bananas (2-3 ripe bananas)
*1 cup butterscotch OR chocolate OR white chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
Measure the oil into a large glass measuring cup and beat in the eggs.
Put the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda into a large bowl and mix the liquid ingredients, followed by the mashed bananas.
Fold in the butterscotch chips, then divide equal quantities into the waiting muffin pan and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Makes 12.

Farmhouse White Bread

2008-01-06T23:48:00.001-05:00

I bought a bread machine over the weekend and tried my hand at it today. The first batch was a test one to 'break in' the machine and actually looked better than the second loaf but the second loaf recipe I tested made a bigger loaf so it filled out!

Farmhouse White Bread
1 cup milk
1 egg
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
3 cups bread flour
1 1/2 teaspoons rapid or quick yeast

Add ingredients according to your bread machine instructions.

Makes a 1 1/2 pound loaf.

Maple-Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter

2007-11-23T18:23:00.000-05:00

I fixed this turkey for Thanksgiving and it was excellent!!! I removed the bacon off the top at about 1/2 hour before it was done to brown the top ~ it didn't suggest this in the recipe. Our turkey was close to 18 lbs so it cooked 4.5 hours. I also added rosemary ontop.

Maple-Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter
Recipe by Tyler Florence

1 sticks unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1/4 bunch fresh sage, finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 (12 to 14-pound) fresh turkey, giblets, neck, and liver discarded

8 strips bacon

1/2 cup maple syrup

2 tablespoons hot water

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and remove the top rack of the oven.
Put the butter and sage in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork or spoon until the sage is well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.
Rinse the bird thoroughly inside and out with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the cavity and skin liberally with salt and pepper. Using your fingers, gently lift the skin from the turkey breast and slip the remaining seasoned butter under, massaging the breast meat as you go. Truss the bird by crossing the legs over one another and tying with a piece of kitchen twine. Shingle the bacon strips over the breast so it's totally covered. Put the turkey on a rack in a large roasting pan, cover the turkey with aluminium foil, and place in the oven.
In a small bowl, stir the maple syrup with 2 tablespoons of hot water to thin. Roast the turkey for 2 hours, basting with the maple glaze every 30 minutes. Continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the meaty part of the thigh registers 170 degrees F. The thigh juices will run clear when pricked with a knife, about 3 hours total (15 minutes per pound). About 1/2 hour before you think the turkey is done, remove the foil so that it can brown. When done take the turkey out of the oven and put the roasting pan on the stovetop. Transfer the turkey to a serving tray to rest at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with Turkey Gravy.

Thanksgiving Cookies

2007-11-21T15:53:00.000-05:00

Ben and I made these fun Pillsbury Thanksgiving Cookies this afternoon. We didn't find candy corns as in the recipe but apparently Ben deemed sweet and sour gummy worms a good substitute so I cut them in half and we improvised.

My folks, grandmother and brother will be coming over tomorrow and voila, our menu. . .

appetizers

Crab Appetizer (Mom is bringing)

Chips and Dip

main meal

Turkey (I'm trying Tyler Florence's Maple Roasted with Sage Butter recipe)

Apple and Onion Stuffing

Cranberry Sauce

Rolls

Mashed Potatoes

Sweet Potato Casserole with marshmallows ontop (my grandmother will bring these)

Peas

Corn Casserole (again, my grandmother brings..)

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese (my grandmother will bring or she isn't allowed in!)

Squash Casserole (Mom is bringing)

Green Bean Casserole (Mom is bringing)

Sweets

Apple Pie

Pumpkin Pie

Can't wait!!!

Snappy Smothered Chicken

2007-11-05T19:24:00.000-05:00

This was very good! I am always looking for new chicken recipes to try and this one was in a recent issue of Southern Living Magazine. I didn't use mushrooms (can't stand them!) and substituted cream of chicken soup. Try it ~ you won't be sorry.

Snappy Smothered Chicken

1 (8oz) package wide egg noodles

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, crumbled

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

3 Tablespoons butter

1 large onion, chopped

1 (16oz) package mushrooms, sliced

2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 1/3 cup milk

1 rotisserie chicken, cut into serving pieces

2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Prepare noodles according to package directions. Keep warm.

Meanwhile, stir together paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add onion and mushrooms, and saute 8-10 minutes or until onion is tender. Stir in garlic and paprika mixture; saute 2 minutes. Add soup, milk and bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Add chicken pieces; spoon sauce over top of chicken. Reduce heat to low, and cook, covered, 10-15 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly heated. Stir in 1 Tablespoon parsley. Serve over hot cooked noodles. Sprinkle with remaining parsley.

Canary Lemon Cake

2007-11-03T14:01:00.000-04:00

If you like lemon cakes, you will love this one!!!! My Ben's favorite cake is lemon and this is one makes him smile with fork on the ready :)

Canary Lemon Cake
1 package lemon supreme cake mix
1 (3.4 oz) package lemon instant pudding mix
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
3/4 cup lemon juice, divided
2 cups sifted powdered sugar

Combine first 5 ingredients; add 1/2 cup lemon juice, and beat 2 minutes at medium speed of an electric mixer. Pour batter into a greased and floured 13X9X2-inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool in pan on a wire rack.

Combine remaining 1/4 cup lemon juice and powdered sugar, stirring well. Drizzle over cake. Cut into squares.

Easy Texas Chili

2007-11-03T13:55:00.000-04:00

This is my favorite Chili recipe and oh so comforting on a cold day. I top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and serve with cornbread. Enjoy!

Easy Texas Chili
1 lb ground chuck
1 small onion, chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 (16-oz) can chili hot beans, undrained
1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
1 1/2 cups water
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt

Combine first 3 ingredients in a Dutch oven; cook until beef if browned, stirring until it crumbles. Drain and return to Dutch oven. Add beans and remaining ingredients; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Yield- 6 cups.

Southern Easy Chocolate Cake

2007-11-01T18:16:00.000-04:00

Oh MY is this ever so good! My friend, Betty Peterson, made this for our recent stitching get-together and it was divine - so moist! If you are a chocoholic, you MUST try this!!!

Southern Easy Chocolate Cake
Mix: 2 C. sugar and 2 C. flour

Bring to boil for 1 minute: 1 C. water
1 stick butter
1 C. canola oil
4 T. baking cocoa
Pour above over flour/sugar mixture and add:
½ C. buttermilk
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
Dash salt

Bake in 9”x13” greased and floured baking pan at 350 degrees for approximately 45 minutes.

Icing
Bring to boil:

4 T. milk
4 T. baking cocoa
1 stick butter
1 tsp. vanilla
Add to 1 lb. box of confectioners’ (10x) sugar
Spread on hot cake in pan.
Cool and serve.

Artichoke and Crab Dip

2007-10-29T16:45:00.001-04:00

Mom brought this dip with crackers to my stitching party yesterday and it was delicious. Be warned; it is VERY addictive!!!

Artichoke and Crab Dip

1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup minced green onion
1 tsp. grated lemon peel
1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
1 (14-oz) can artichoke hearts, well drained and finely chopped
1/2 lb. crab meat + more if desired
2 tbsp. minced roasted red pepper
1/4 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
1 tbsp. melted butter
French bread or crackers

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Butter a 1-quart baking dish. In medium bowl, blend mayonnaise, cheese, green onion, lemon peel, lemon juice and black pepper. Stir in artichoke hearts, crab and roasted pepper. Spoon into baking dish.

Blend breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over crab mixture. Bake about 20 minutes until top is golden and mixture is hot. Original recipe called for 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds to be mixed with the breadcrumbs ~ but I didn't use them.

Serve with toasted thinly sliced French bread or crackers.
Serves 24 (yeah right!)

Double Apple Muffins

2007-10-21T10:25:00.000-04:00

When my Mom went with a friend to OH this summer, she brought back goodies for me including a few mixes by Fowler's Mill. This morning I made the Double Apple Muffins which were perfect for an Autumnal morning. If you visit their website, you will see a large array of such mixes on their online shop. I have the pancake/waffle mix up next to try.

Cookie of the Week: Ruth Wakefield's Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

2007-09-21T18:01:00.000-04:00

The recipe suggested M&Ms as a substitute for the chocolate chips so I did that; Ben LOVES those.

Ruth Wakefield's Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
from The King Arthur Flour Cookie Companion

2 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 1/4 cups brown sugar
3 large eggs
2 cups chocolate chips or M&Ms
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 10X15-inch jelly roll pan OR for thicker bars use a 9X13-inch pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In another large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar, stirring until smooth.

Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the flour mixture, then the chocolate chips, or M&Ms, and nuts if desired. Spread the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake the bars for 24-26 minutes, depending on pan, until their top is shiny and golden. Don't overbake, or the bars will be dry; a cake tester inserted in the center will NOT come out clean. Remove bars from the oven and cool to room temperature before cutting.

Yields 35 bars

Ranch Dip & Veggies

2007-09-14T20:34:00.000-04:00

This is really good ~ you won't be sorry you made this addicting creation!

Ranch Dip & Veggies
3/4 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Stir together sour cream, mayonnaise, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined well. Chill dip, covered, until slightly thickened, at least 1 hour (for flavors to develop).

Serve dip with baby carrots, sugar snap peas, cucumber slices, grape tomatoes and celery sticks.

Cookie of the Week ~ Lemon Cookies

2007-09-14T20:24:00.001-04:00

Ben's favorite store-bought cookie is a lemon variety from Harris Teeter. These babies are SO sweet that I can't even eat one; the whole container is his to enjoy and try to make last a few days :)

Crab and Shrimp Wonton Cups

2007-09-11T23:27:00.000-04:00

My friend, Betty, made these last spring when I was pregnant and I devoured MANY of them. They are soooooooooooo good!

Crab and Shrimp Wonton Cups
4 oz cream cheese, softened
chopped green onions and chives
8 oz imitation crab meat, chopped
24 cooked shrimp
salt & pepper to taste (I also added tarragon and spices of choice)
1 pkg wonton wrappers
4-6 oz shredded mozzarella and monterey jack

Mix cream cheese, green onions and crab. Add spices, salt and cheese ~ reserving some of the cheese. Push 1 wonton wrapper in mini muffin pan and bake at 350 degrees for five minutes. (Can make wrappers ahead 1 day.)
Put a teaspoonful of mix into wonton cup and top with 1 shrimp & pinch of cheese. Bake 350 for 5 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted!

Mindy's Quiche Recipe

2007-09-10T15:15:00.000-04:00

This has to be my alltime favorite quick recipe. I've made it several times varying the additions and every time it's a winner.

Mindy's Quiche

Pillsbury pie crust

1 Cup whole milk

1 Cup half-n-half

4 eggs

1 box frozen chopped spinach thawed and drained (vary your ingredients here!)

1 2 Cup package shredded cheese (use your favorite blend)

Mix all together; pour into pie crust and bake at 350 for 1 hour or until golden brown and set.

cake, need I say more?

2007-09-08T22:04:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you just NEED a piece of chocolate cake. Well, now you can have that in minutes with a new mix from Betty Crocker. I made the caramel one tonight and well, try it ~ you won't be sorry, you'll be chocolate happy. It was extra good topped with ice cream!

Link to Betty Crocker

Cookie of the Week ~ Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

2007-09-06T10:26:00.000-04:00

Last year around the time of Zack's birth, I started 'Cookie of the Week' for Ben; baking him a batch of different cookies every week as something sweet to look forward to. It ended when school did in June so now it's time for it again. The cookie jar will be happy today!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

1/2 cup butter

1 cup chunky peanut butter

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1 egg, beaten

1 t vanilla

2 T maple syrup

1 1/2 cups flour

3/4 t baking soda

2 cups chocolate chips (only had the peanut butter & chocolate ones on hand)

Cream butter, peanut butter and sugar. Add egg, vanilla and syrup to creamed mixture.

In a seperate bowl, toss together flour and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture. Stir in chocolate chips. Form into 1-inch balls and flatten with a floured glass bottom.

Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-9 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Makes 2 1/2 dozen, depending on size.

Baked Four~Cheese Pasta

2007-09-04T18:26:00.001-04:00

Doesn't that look good? I HAD to take a picture of it. It turned out very tasty; it was a special meal tonight for Ben, in celebration of his first day in the third grade. He LOVES bow tie pasta and cheese so I thought this recipe was ideal. You could add sweet italian sausage for a hearty meal too. D-lish :)

Baked Four~Cheese Pasta

4 slices bacon, chopped fine

1 small onion, chopped fine

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream (I used light cream)

3/4 pound bow tie pasta

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup frozen peas

salt & pepper

1 cup shredded Italian 4-cheese blend

Adjust oven rack to upper-middle position and heat oven to 500 degrees. Cook bacon, onion, and garlic in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add broth, cream, uncooked pasta, and 1/2 teaspoon salt; cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.

Off heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and peas and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Transfer to 2-quart casserole dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake until cheese is melted and spotty brown, about 5 minutes. Serve.

Beef Taco Bake

2007-08-20T07:54:00.000-04:00

Recently I purchased America's Test Kitchen's booklet of 96 recipes and so far they are wonderful! Each one I've tried has been delicious. This weekend, I tried the Beef Taco Bake recipe and we really enjoyed it.

Beef Taco Bake
2 (10oz) cans Ro-Tel tomatoes, drain 1/2 cup juice reserved
1 (16oz) can refried beans
1 Tablespoon hot sauce
1/4 Cup chopped fresh cilantro
3 Cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (2 Cups was plenty)
1 1/2 pounds 90-percent-lean ground beef (I used 85%)
1 (1.25 oz) pacakge low-sodium taco seasoning mix
12 taco shells
3 green onions, sliced thin

Adjust oven rack to upper-middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees. Combine half of tomatoes, beans, hot sauce, cilantro in bowl. Spread evenly in 13X9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheese.

Cook beef in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Pour off fat, then stir in taco seasoning, remaining tomatoes, and reserved tomato juice. Simmer over medium-low heat until thickened and nearly dry, about 5-7 minutes.

Spoon 1 Tablespoon cheese into each taco shell and top with beef mixture. Arrange tacos upright in bean mixture; cover with foil, and bake until bubbling, about 10 minutes. Removei foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake until melted, about 6 minutes. Sprinkle with green onions. Serve.

Tanya's Shrimp Pad Thai

2007-08-18T20:20:00.000-04:00

Threw this together for dinner tonight and it was great! Simple, easy and curbs that pad thai craving without the price of carryout!

Tanya's Shrimp Pad Thai
2 Tablespoons peanut oil
1 lb uncooked shrimp, deveined and peeled
1/2 - 1 bottle of peanut sauce (I used Harris Teeter brand)
1 package Thai noodles
1 splash hot sauce (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
1-2 Tablespoons chopped green onions
1 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
1/2 cup unsalted peanuts (crush in a baggie and crush with mallet)

Heat oil in skillet. Add shrimp and cook until pink on both sides. Pour peanut sauce over shrimp and toss to coat in skillet. Add noodles and seperate if in clumps. Salt and pepper to taste. Add hot sauce to your liking. Heat through and toss to coat all with sauce. Remove from heat.

Sprinkle green onions, cilantro and peanuts over top. Serve!

Skillet Chicken and Potatoes

2007-08-16T20:10:00.000-04:00

I fixed this tonight and it was wonderful! The recipe says you can substitute fresh thyme for the sage but the sage worked so well with the lemon that I don't see how you could substitute something else. It was a perfect comfort meal.

Skillet Chicken and Potatoes
1 lb small red potatoes, halved
3 T olive oil
1/4 Cup all-purpose flour
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
salt and pepper
2 T unsalted butter
3/4 Cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 T chopped fresh sage
2 T lemon juice

Toss potatoes and 1 Tablespoon oil together in microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high power until tender; 4-5 minutes, tossing potatoes halfway through cooking.

Place flour in shallow dish. Season chicken with salt and pepper. dredge in flour, and shake to remove excess. Melt 1 Tablespoon butter with remaining 2 Tablespoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. When foam subsides, cook chicken until browned on both sides, 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer to plate, leaving far in skillet, and cover chicken with foil.

Reduce heat to medium, add potatoes, cut side down, and cook until browned, 4-5 minutes. Transfer to platter. Add broth, sage, and lemon juice and, using wooden spoon, scrape browned bits from skillet. Return chicken and accumulated juices to pan and simmer until sauce is slightly thickened and chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer chicken to platter with potatoes. Whisk remaining Tablespoon butter into sauce, season with salt and pepper, and pour sauce over chicken and potatoes. Serves 4.

Easy Enchiladas

2007-08-11T18:46:00.000-04:00

I see my last post was also an enchiladas recipe!

I fixed this tonight and it was REALLY goooooood! Served it with Mexican Ready Rice to be simple and twas a fabulous weekend meal.

Easy Enchiladas
1 lb ground pork sausage
1/2 Cup chopped onion
1 t minced garlic
1 (7.76 oz) can tomatillo salsa, divided (Harris Teeter brand is goooood but a bigger jar so measure out if you use it)
1/4 Cup chopped fresh cilantro
fajita-size flour tortillas
2 Cups shredded Mexican four-cheese blend, divided
cooking spray
2 Cups refrigerated fresh medium-heat tomato salsa
1/2 Cup low-sodium chicken broth
Garnish: chopped fresh cilantro

Brown sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, 11-14 minutes or until meat crumbles and is no longer pink. Remove sausage skillet using a slotted spoon, and drain on paper towels.

Saute onion and garlic in hot drippings over medium-high heat 2-3 minutes or until onion is tender. Remove from heat. Stir in sausage, 1/2 Cup tomatillo salsa, and 1/4 Cup chopped cilantro.

Spoon equal amounts of sausage mixture down center of each tortilla and sprinkle with 1 Tablespoon shredded cheese. Roll tortillas up, and place, seam sides down, in a lightly greased 13X9-inch baking dish. Lightly coat tops of tortillas with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until tortillas are crisp.

Stir together 2 Cups tomato salsa, 1/2 Cup chicken broth, and remaining tomatillo salsa in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, 4-6 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Pour this salsa mixture over tortillas, and top evenly with remaining shredded cheese. Bake 5 more minutes or until cheese is melted. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish, if desired.

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

2007-08-08T07:52:00.000-04:00

This is my friend, Jeanine's, recipe; she brought it to a Cub Scout potluck dinner two years ago and it was gone fast. YUM!

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

Sauce
2 cans cream of chicken soup
1 pint sour cream
1 Cup chicken broth
1 can (4oz) sliced green chills

Stuffing
4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
2 Cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 large onion chopped
12 flour tortillas (this may vary depending on how you stuff them)

Preheat oven 350 degrees

Baking time 30-45 minutes (depending on oven)

Generously grease 9 X 13 baking dish.

Combine all sauce ingredients in mixing bowl and stir to mix. Place chicken, cheese and onion in separate bowls near sauce. Start by stuffing one tortilla with small handful of chicken, 2-3 tablespoons of grated cheese, 1-2 tablespoons of chopped onion and cover with 3-4 tablespoons of sauce (amounts you use to stuff tortilla may vary depending on how thick or thin you prefer the tortillas). Fold in tortilla at each end and roll to close. Place stuffed tortilla in 9 X 13 baking dish. Continue stuffing remaining tortillas. Pour leftover sauce mixture over top of tortillas and spread evenly. Top with extra cup of grated cheddar cheese.

Banana Bundt Cake

2007-08-08T07:50:00.000-04:00

This is so moist and gooooood!

Banana Bundt Cake

2 bananas, mashed

1 french vanilla cake mix

1 small box vanilla instant pudding

3 eggs

1 Cup sour cream

1/3 Cup water

2 T oil

1/4 t baking powder

1 can (16oz) white frosting

Preheat oven to 350. Combine bananas, cake mix, pudding, eggs, sour cream,water, oil and baking powder. Mix just until moistened. Pour batter into greased and floured bundt pan. Bake 45-50 minutes. Invert cake onto a platter and let cool.Place frosting in microwave 10-15 seconds to soften. Drizzle over cake.

Pumpkin Spice Cake

2007-08-08T07:47:00.001-04:00

This cake doesn't even need icing but of course it wouldn't hurt. . .

Pumpkin Spice Cake
4 eggs
2 Cups sugar
1 Cup vegetable oil
1 15-oz can pumpkin
2 t cinnamon
1 t baking soda
3/4 t salt
1/2 t ground ginger
2 Cups all-purpose flour
1/4 t ground cloves
2 t baking powder

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bundt pan. Beat eggs, sugar, oil and pumpkin. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes. Cool and frost with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting

3 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/4 Ccup plus

2 T butter, softened

1 t vanilla

2 C powdered sugar

chopped walnuts

Mix cream cheese, butter, and vanilla, Gradually beat in powdered sugar until frosting is smooth and of spreading consistency. Spread over Pumpkin Spice Cake and sprinkle with chopped walnuts. This cake holds up well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

Country Brunch Skillet

2007-08-08T07:41:00.000-04:00

This is excellent for a weekend morning or ANY morning you need a filling, hearty start!

Country Brunch Skillet
6 bacon strips
6 Cups cubed hash brown potatoes
3/4 Cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 Cup chopped onion
1 t salt
1/4 t pepper
6 eggs
1/2 Cup shredded cheddar cheese

In a large skillet over med. heat, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon; crumble and set aside. Drain, leaving 2 tablespoons of drippings. Add potatoes, green pepper, onion, salt and pepper to drippings; cook and stir for 2 min. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are browned and tender, about 15 min. Make six wells in the potatomixture; break one egg into each well. Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 min. or until eggs are completely set. Sprinkle with cheese and bacon.

Awesome Crockpot Pot Roast

2007-08-02T00:18:00.000-04:00

Fall will be here soon and it's such the perfect time to bring out the crockpot! This is a favorite meal on cooler nights when comfort food is a must!

Awesome Crockpot Pot Roast
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix
1 1/4 Cups water
5 1/2 pounds pot roast

In a slow cooker, mix cream of mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix and water. Place pot roast in slow cooker and coat with soup mixture.

Cook on High setting for 3 to 4 hours, or on Low setting for 8 to 9 hours.

Spinach Salad

2007-07-25T21:46:00.000-04:00

Another favorite for spinach BUT I don't like mandarin oranges so I leave them out.

Spinach Salad
Dressing
1/3 Cup olive oil
1/4 Cup white wine vinegar
1 T dijon mustard
2-3 T honey
Blend together.

Salad
1 bag (10oz) spinach
11oz can mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 medium Vidalia onion
1/3 Cup Walnuts, toasted

To toast walnuts
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place nuts on foil in oven or on pan and toast lightly.

Mix salad and dressing together. Top with nuts at last minute.

Sausage and Cheese Balls

2007-07-25T21:42:00.000-04:00

A family favorite around the holidays, this easy recipe is so addicting and filling!

Sausage and Cheese Balls
12 oz shredded cheddar cheese
1 lb hot, spicy sausage (mild is fine too!)
3 Cups Bisquick mix

Mix all together well. Shape into balls. Bake on cookie sheet at 350 degrees until brown, about 20-25 minutes.

Carol's Peanut Butter Pie

2007-07-25T21:40:00.001-04:00

Words can't express how gooooood this one is! Try it.

Carol's Peanut Butter Pie
8oz cream cheese
1-14oz can condensed milk
3/4 Cup peanut butter
2 T lemon juice
1 T vanilla extract
4-oz cool whip
9-inch chocolate pie crust
chocolate syrup - optional

Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add milk and butter, lemon and vanilla. Fold in cool whip. Freeze in 9" chocolate pie crust for 4 hours. Drizzle with chocolate syrup on top!

Best~Ever Corn Casserole

2007-07-25T21:36:00.000-04:00

This dish goes with almost anything! I can make it in my sleep :) It's great for potlucks. Simple too ~ can't beat that!

Best~Ever Corn Casserole
1 can cream style corn
1 can whole kernel corn (drained)
1-8oz sour cream
1 egg
1 package jiffy corn muffin mix
pinch salt
pinch black pepper
snipped parsley to desired amount

Combine and blend.
Bake in greased 8X11-inch pan at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes.

Lobster Curry

2007-07-22T18:41:00.000-04:00

I fixed this tonight for the first time and YUM. It was rich and creamy and OH so wonderful. I don't buy lobster often (you can figure out why!) but it's sure nice for a summer's meal and for this Sunday dinner we enjoyed it served over Jasmine rice. Treat yourself too!

Recipe is from Morgan Freeman & Friends Caribbean Cooking for a Cause

Lobster Curry
1 pound lobster meat, cut into 2" pieces
1/4 Cup all purpose flour
2 T oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 Cup white wine (I used chicken broth instead)
2 T curry powder
2 Cups heavy cream
1/2 Cup coconut cream
salt and pepper

Dust the losbter with the flour. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lobster and saute until opaque and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

Add the garlic, wine (or chicken broth), and curry powder to the skillet and cook until reduced by half. Add the heavy cream and coconut cream and simmer for 4 minutes. Return the lobster to the skillet and heat until warmed through. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Mama's Curried Chicken

2007-07-19T22:25:00.000-04:00

Oh this is SO good. Funny but I didn't like this growing up and whenever it was prepared, I'd prefer a peanut butter sandwich! Hmmm, wonder where Ben became so picky?

I LOVE this dish now; it is requested for birthdays or special occasions in our family. My grandmother makes it like none other; this is how it reads on her recipe card that she gave me. I've made it myself a few times pretty well, I must say, BUT it's not like hers.

Mama's Curried Chicken

Make desired amount of chicken. Season boneless chicken breasts (cut in 1/2) with salt and pepper. Roll in flour and fry both sides until brown in electric skillet for even cooking.

Place chicken pieces in roasting pan in a 300 degree oven to keep warm. Meanwhile, chop up onion. Saute till transparent. Scrape to side and sprinkle 1/2 cup flour in, stir until it browns. Once brown, add 1/2 Cup water. Stir and add 1 Tablespoon + (or as much to your liking) curry power (mild and/or hot), and desired amount of salt to your liking and stir. Add garlic.

Bring out roasting pan and pour this gravy over chicken. Cover and return to a 325 degree oven for at least 30 minutes.

Serve over white rice with raisins and peanuts. Peas and cloverleaf rolls are a MUST to go along with!!!

Barbecue~Battered Chicken Fingers

2007-07-19T22:21:00.000-04:00

I half this recipe and it's plenty!!!

Barbecue~Battered Chicken Fingers
3 lbs. skinned and boned chicken breasts (I use chicken tenders)
3 Cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 t seasoned salt OR regular salt is fine
1 1/2 t pepper
3/4 t garlic powder
2 Cups buttermilk
2 large eggs
vegetable oil
honey smoke bbq sauce OR regular flavor is fine

CUT each chicken breast into 3X1-inch strips, and set aside.

COMBINE flour and next 3 ingredients in a large shallow dish.

WHISK together buttermilk, 3/4 cup bbq sauce, and eggs in bowl. Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture; dip in buttermilk mixture, and dredge again in flour mixture. (This gets VERY messy ~ be patient!)

POUR oil to a depth of 1 1/2 inches in a deep skillet or Dutch oven; heat to 360. (I use the cast iron skillet)

FRY chicken in batches, 5-7 minutes or until golden. Drain on wire rack over paper towels. Serve with extra bbq sauce if needed.

Low ~ Fat Salsa Chicken

2007-07-19T22:18:00.000-04:00

Simple, good AND healthy!

Low ~ Fat Salsa Chicken

4 chicken breast halves, skinnless and boneless
vegetable cooking spray
3/4 Cup salsa (or more to desired consistency)

1/4 Cup grated Parmesan Cheese

PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees.

PLACE chicken in an 11X7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Spoon salsa evenly over chicken; top with green onions. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes or until chicken is done.

Spinach Salad with Honey~Brown Butter Dressing

2007-07-19T22:15:00.001-04:00

I love spinach and this is a great way to add it to your meal.

Spinach Salad with Honey-Brown Butter Dressing

4 T butter
1 shallot, chopped
1 T red wine vinegar
2 t honey
salt and pepper to taste
6 loosely packed cups baby spinach

Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook until the shallot is tender and the butter turns brown color, 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in vinegar, honey, and salt and pepper. Pour over spinach in a bowl and toss.

Louisiana Sausage Coffee Cake

2007-07-19T22:08:00.000-04:00

This was made at a potluck that my grandmother attended years ago and has become a family favorite ever since she got the recipe from her friend. We always have it with applesauce on the side. It's good for ANY meal of the day!

Louisianna Sausage Coffee Cake

1lb sausage (I use Jamestown sausage every time ~ it's the best!)

1/2 Cup chopped green onion (about a bunch)

1/4 Ccup grated Parmesan Cheese

1/2 Cup grated Monterey Jack Cheese

1 egg, beaten

2 T fresh parsley

2 Cups bisquick

3/4 Cup milk

1/4 Cup mayo

Brown sausage, onions and drain. Add next 4 ingredients. Make batter of bisquick, milk and mayo in another bowl. Spread HALF of this batter in a greased with cooking spray 8" square dish.

Pour in sausage mixture. Spread remaining bisquick mix on top. (This will be hard to spread so always best to use spatula that has been under hot water to make life easier!)

Bake at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

Crockpot Taco Bake

2007-07-17T17:43:00.001-04:00

My husband enjoys this dish and always calls it 'Taco Ba Kay' ~ he's funny that way, making up funny ways to say things. This is a simple, oh so yummy, hearty meal to make when the Autumn days start coming.

Crockpot Taco Bake
1 pound ground chuck (or ground turkey)
1 onion, chopped3/4 cup water
1 package taco seasoning mix
1 15oz can chopped tomatoes with green chilies
2 8oz cans tomato sauce
1 8oz package shell macaroni, uncooked

Brown ground meat in skillet with onion. Drain. Add the water, seasoning mix, tomato and green chilies, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in macaroni and transfer to crockpot. Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours. During the last 30 minutes, sprinkle with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.

Meat and Cheese Lasanga

2007-07-15T22:48:00.000-04:00

If you're in the mood for a big plate of lasanga, try this. It's divine, but then, isn't pasta afterall?

Meat and Cheese Lasanga
1 lb sweet Italian sausage in casings
1 Cup low-fat ricotta cheese
3/4 Cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 T minced garlic
1 T crushed red pepper flakes
2 T chopped fresh basil leaves
2 (14oz) cans diced Tomatoes

1 Cup chopped red onion
2 T roughly chopped fresh oregano leaves
2 T roughly chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
2 T roughly chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 large zucchini, chopped
9 lasanga pasta noodles (flat Barilla oven-ready/no-boil kind)
Extra light olive oil

Preaheat oven to 350 degrees.

Remove the casing from sausage and discard. Heat a nonstick saute pan over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the sausage; crumble and brown until thoroughly cooked. Drain and discard any grease in the pan. Remove sausage from heat and add the ricotta and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Stir until well blended. Set aside.

Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a small, non-stick saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and chopped basil and saute until the garlic just begins to soften, about 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and set aside.
Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a large nonstick saute pan over medium-high heat. Add onion, oregano, parsley, and thyme and saute until onions are just soft, about 2 minutes. Add zucchini and continue sauteing until the vegetables are tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and add half of the tomato sauce to the sauteed vegetables.

To assemble, line the bottom of a lasagna pan with 1/4 of the tomato sauce. Top with 3 lasagna noodles. Layer three times with equal amounts of sausage mixture, vegetable mixture ending with remaining tomato sauce over top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before cutting.

Spicy Double~Decker Tacos

2007-07-15T22:45:00.000-04:00

Filling and oh so yummy!

Spicy Double~Decker Tacos
1lb ground beef
1 envelope taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies, with liquid
taco shells
small flour tortillas
grated cheddar cheese
shredded lettuce
salsa
sour cream

Brown and drain ground beef in nonstick skillet. Stir in taco seasoning and tomatoes. Cover and cook over low heat 10 minutes. Place a flour tortilla (that has been heated on each side in skillet) inside each hard taco shell (that has been warmed according to package in oven). Place a scoop of meat mixture into each flour tortilla. Sprinkle a small amount of cheese over meat, then put shredded lettuce over top. Garnish with salsa and sour cream.

Easy Baked Pork Chops & Gravy

2007-07-15T22:41:00.000-04:00

Wonderful, tasty and easy recipe! I coat the chops with cornbread dressing because I like it has more flavor than the herb kind.

Easy Baked Pork Chops And Gravy
4 boneless pork chops, 3/4" thick (about 1 lb.)
2 T all purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
1 Cup herb seasoned stuffing, crushed
1 jar (12 oz.) roasted onion and garlic gravy

Lightly coat chops with flour. Dip into egg. Coat with stuffing. Place chops onbaking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 min. or until chops are no longer pink. In small saucepan over med. heat, heat gravy. Serve with chops.

Sour Cream Cornbread

2007-07-15T22:39:00.001-04:00

I prefer 'sweet' cornbread but this is nice for a variety. My grandmother loves it this way instead. It is good, don't get me wrong!

Sour Cream Cornbread
2 T shortening
1 Cup self-rising cornmeal
1 (8 1/2oz) can cream-style corn
1 (8oz) carton sour cream
1/4 Cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs, lightly beaten

Heat shortening in an 8-inch cast-iron skillet at 425 degrees for 5 minutes or until skillet is almost smoking.Meanwhile, combine cornmeal and remaining ingredients, stirring just until moistened. Remove skillet from oven; spoon batter into hot skillet. Bake at 425 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden.

Delta Fried Catfish

2007-07-15T22:35:00.000-04:00

The flavor is so good that it doesn't even need tartar sauce. It's another keeper from my Southern Living magazine stash.

Delta Style Fried Catfish
1 1/2 Cups milk
2-3 drops hot sauce (or more!)
6 (4-6oz) catfish fillets
3/4 Cup yellow cornmeal
1/4 Cup all purpose flour
2 t salt
1 t ground black pepper
1 t ground red pepper
1/4 t garlic powder
Vegetable oil

WHISK together milk and hot sauce. Place catfish fillets in a single layer in a 13X9-inch baking dish; cover with milk mixture. Cover and chill 8 hours, turning once.

COMBINE cornmeal and next 5 ingredients in a shallow dish, and set aside.

LET catfish fillets stand at room temp in milk mixture in baking dish for 10 minutes. Remove fillets from milk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.

DREDGE catfish fillets in cornmeal mixture, shaking off excess.

POUR oil to a depth of 1 1/2 inches into a large, deep cast-iron or heavy-duty skillet; heat to 360. Fry fillets, in batches, 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack on a paper towel-lined pan. Keep warm in a 225 degree oven until ready to serve.

Stuffed Shells

2007-07-15T22:29:00.000-04:00

My best friend in high school, Amy, would call me when she baked or cooked something to come over and eat with her :) This is one of the many recipes Amy passed down to me. It has become a family favorite. I don't know where the recipe card went but have memorized it through the years. You'll notice is it a familiar stuffed shell recipe everyone adds their own yummies. I vary it when need be ~ sometimes even add diced onion if I have it on hand.

Stuffed Shells

1lb Jamestown mild OR hot sausage

1lb ground beef

minced garlic OR garlic powder

1 package jumbo pasta shells

1 jar spaghetti sauce of your choice

Italian bread crumbs

2 cups mozarella cheese, shredded

2 eggs

Brown sausage and ground beef together with garlic. Drain and set aside. Cook jumbo shells and drain and set aside to cool. In a large bowl, combine meats, bread crumbs, eggs and 3/4 of shredded cheese. Pour 1/2 of sauce in 9X13 pyrex dish. Fill shells with generous portions of mixture. Place in dish and once all shells are in the dish, cover with remaining sauce. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and cook in a 350 degree oven for 30-35 minutes.

Spinach Pinwheels

2007-07-12T08:33:00.000-04:00

Another great recipe to use those crescent rolls!!! I like to make these during the holidays.

Spinach Pinwheels
Makes 30
2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls
1 (7 ounce) package garlic herb cheese spread
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Split crescent dough in half along center perforation. Flatten one rectangle, sealing perforations. Spread with 1/4 of the cheese spread and sprinkle with spinach. Starting with long side, roll dough up, rolling back and forth several times to seal edges. Cut into 3/4 inch slices (about 15 slices per roll). Arrange the slices one inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Continue making the crescent roll ups until all of the ingredients are used. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until lightly browned. Serve immediately or keep warm on a warming tray.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders

2007-07-12T08:29:00.000-04:00

I fix these for the Superbowl sometimes and they are gone quickly!

Buffalo Chicken Tenders
12 chicken tenders, about 12 ounces
1/2 cup Louisiana hot sauce
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 ribs celery, cut into 3-inch lengths

Soak the chicken in the hot sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Put the flour in a pie tin and season with salt and Cajun seasoning. Remove chicken from hot sauce, shake off excess, and dredge chicken in the flour. Set on a baking rack.

Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter has stopped bubbling, add the chicken tenders and cook until golden and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with blue cheese dipping sauce or Ranch dressing and celery pieces.

Louisiana-Style Flounder

2007-07-12T08:24:00.000-04:00

A healthy and GOOD recipe ~ serve with rice and a spinach salad and you have a meal that will fill you up!

Louisiana~Style Flounder

1 T olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup seeded and chopped green bell pepper
1 celery stick, chopped
2 T Cajun seasoning
1 tomato, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, chopped
1 T chopped fresh thyme or 1 t dried
1/2 t salt
4 (4oz) flounder fillets

Heat 2 Tablespoons of the oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and 1 Tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are very tender, about 8 minutes. Add the tomato, garlic, thyme, and salt. Continue to cook, uncovered, until the tomato is very soft, about 5 minutes longer.

Sprinkle the fish with the remaining 1 Tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fish and cook until just opaque in center, about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer the fillets to a platter and spoon the sauce over the fish.

Bacon Potato Salad

2007-07-12T08:14:00.000-04:00

A wonderful version of potato salad from my Southern Living magazine stash. My husband LOVES potato salad and complains I don't make it enough. We like this one!

Bacon Potato Salad
6-8 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (I use red potatoes)
1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
6 green onions, chopped
2 celery ribs, finely chopped
2 Tablespoons diced pimiento, drained
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup mayo (I use light)
1/2 cup sour cream (I use light)
Garnishes: paprika, celery sticks

COOK potatoes in boiling water to cover in a Dutch oven over medium heat 15-18 minutes or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

PLACE potatoes in a large bowl. Add bacon, chopped green onions, and next 4 ingredients. Stir together mayo and sour cream until blended. Pour over potato mixture, tossing gently to coat. Cover and chill at least 1 hour. Garnish, if desired.

Crunchy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

2007-07-12T08:11:00.000-04:00

Simple and tasty!

Crunchy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
1 1/4 cups freshly grated Parmesan
3/4 cup Italian-style seasoned bread crumbs

Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.

Brush 1 tablespoon of oil over each of 2 heavy large lined baking sheets. Place the buttermilk in a large bowl. Add the chicken tenders and stir to coat. Let stand at least 15 minutes and up to 30 minutes.

Stir the Parmesan and bread crumbs in a pie dish. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and dredge them in the bread crumb mixture to coat completely, pressing to adhere. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheets, spacing evenly. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over the chicken tenders and bake until they are cooked through and golden brown, about 12 minutes, or until done.

Thai~Glazed Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2007-07-12T08:04:00.000-04:00

These are really yummy and fun to eat wrapped up in lettuce!

thai-glazed chicken lettuce wraps
1 pound think-cut boneless skinless chicken breasts
Grill seasoning mix, such as McCormick Montreal seasoning
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons hot chili oil OR 1 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
2 Tablespoons minced fresh ginger
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 large red sweet pepper, seeded and very thinly sliced
2 scallions, chopped on an angle
1/2 cup plum sauce
2 cups loosely packed basil leaves
1/3 seedless cucumber, chopped
1 small head iceberg lettuce, quartered

Thinly slice chicken into strips and sprinkle with grill seasoning mix.

Heat a large skillet to hot. Add vegetable oil and chicken. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add chili oil, ginger, garlic, cabbage, pepper and scallions. Stir-fry another 2 minutes. Add plum sauce and toss for 1 minute. Add basil and wilt leaves into dish. Add fish sauce if using; turn to coat.

Transfer chicken and vegetables to a bowl. Serve alongside chopped cucumber and cut lettuce for wrapping. Place spoonfuls of chicken into a piece of lettuce with cucumber and fold lettuce over to eat like small tacos.

Beef Taco Ring

2007-07-12T07:58:00.000-04:00

I love crescent rolls and this Pampered Chef recipe is a great way to use them and it's oh so good. The leftovers are good too but heat them in the oven, not microwave.

Beef Taco Ring

1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef

1 package (1 1.25 ounces) taco seasoning mix

1 3/4 cups (7ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

2 Tablespoons water1 egg white, lightly beaten

Optional toppings: salsa, shredded lettuce, chopped onion and tomato, sliced olives and sour cream

Preheat the oven to 375.

Cook ground beef in skillet over medium heat 10-12 minutes or until no longer pink, breaking beef into crumbles; drain. Stir in taco seasoning mix, 1 1/2 cups of the cheese and water.Scoop filling evenly over desired shape (of cresent rolls on your stone) finish shape as directed. Brush with egg white. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with toppings.

I use the Ring method and once I take the ring out of oven and set it on the rack which comes with the Pampred Chef pizza stone, I let it cool about 5 minutes and then fill the center with the lettuce and all the yummy toppings.

Mexican Meat-zza ~ Mexican Deep-Dish Pan Pizza

2007-07-10T17:52:00.001-04:00

I think this mght be my most treasured Rachael Ray recipe; it is beyond good and excellent for leftovers too. Super entertaining dish too!

Mexican Meat-zza: Mexican Deep-Dish Pan Pizza
2 boxes corn muffin mix, 8 1/2 ounces each (recommended: Jiffy)
2 eggs
4 T melted butter
1 1/2 cups milk
1 Cup frozen corn kernels
Extra-virgin olive oil or, vegetable oil, for drizzling
2 Tablespoons extra-virgin or vegetable oil, 2 turns of the pan
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 Tablespoon chili powder
2 t ground cumin
2 t cayenne sauce
Salt
2 1/2 cups (10-ounce sack from dairy aisle) shredded Cheddar or jack cheese
Topping:
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small can, 2 1/4 ounces sliced chillies or jalapenos, drained
2 scallions, chopped
2 small vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
2 tablespoons drained sliced green olives (salad olives)
1 to 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves, optional garnish
Mild to medium taco sauce to pass at table, 1 cup

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Mix together 2 packages muffin mix with 2 eggs, 4 tablespoons melted butter (melt in microwave 30 seconds), 1 1/2 cups milk and frozen corn kernels. Wipe a nonstick skillet with a little extra or vegetable oil and pour in the muffin mix. Use a large skillet, 10 to 12 inch. Choose a pan with oven safe handle or, double-wrap handle with foil to protect it in the oven. Place pan in oven and bake 12 to 15 minutes in center of the oven until light golden in color.

Brown the meat over medium high heat in a second skillet in extra or vegetable oil, 2 turns of the pan. Add onions and spices and cook meat 5 minutes more.

Remove cornbread from oven and top with meat, cheese, and veggies. Add pan back to oven and cook 5 minutes more to melt cheese. Garnish with cilantro, optional. Cut into 8 wedges and serve the deep dish pan pizza from the skillet. Pass taco sauce at the table to sprinkle on top.

Onion and Sausage Pizza

2007-07-10T17:49:00.001-04:00

Pizza is one of my alltime favorite foods and this is a terrific recipe. It's really goooooooooood! I used pizza dough rather than French bread.

Onion and Sausage Pizza
1 pound sweet Italian sausage
5 T olive oil, divided
2 large onions, sliced
1 clove garlic, pressed
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
salt and pepper to taste
crushed red pepper to taste
1/4 Cup sliced stuffed green olives
1 (1 pound) loaf French bread, sliced horizontally
6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

Remove sausage from casings and saute sausage in 2 tablespoons olive oil until browned. Drain to remove excess oil. Remove from skillet and set aside. In skillet, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil, add onions, garlic and saute stirring until onions wilt down. Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper and red pepper to taste. Simmer about 5 minutes on low.

Stir together the sausage and onion and chopped olives. Toast bread lightly under broiler. Top with sausage mix and sprinkle grated mozzarella over all. Broil about 3 minutes under broiler until cheese melts. Watch carefully with oven door open. Remove from broiler, slice and serve.

Caramel Apple Pork Chops

2007-07-10T17:43:00.001-04:00

My husband loves this dish!

Caramel Apple Pork Chops
4 (3/4 inch) thick pork chops
1 t vegetable oil
2 T brown sugar
salt and pepper to taste
1/8 t ground cinnamon
1/8 t ground nutmeg
2 T unsalted butter
2 tart apples - peeled, cored and sliced
3 T pecans (optional)

Preheat oven to 175 degrees F (80 degrees C). Place a medium dish in the oven to warm. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brush chops lightly with oil, and place in hot pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, or until done. Transfer to the warm dish, and keep warm in the preheated oven. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add butter to skillet, and stir in brown sugar mixture and apples. Cover, and cook until apples are just tender. Remove apples with a slotted spoon, and arrange on top of chops. Keep warm in the preheated oven. Continue cooking mixture uncovered in skillet, until sauce thickens slightly. Spoon sauce over apples and chops. Sprinkle with pecans.

Weeknight Enchiladas

2007-07-10T17:38:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite Southern Living recipes.

Weeknight Enchiladas
1 pound ground chuck
1 small onion, chopped
1 (10 3/4oz) can tomato soup, undiluted
1 (10oz) can mild enchilada sauce
8 (7 or 8-inch) flour tortillas
2 cups (8oz) shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
sour cream (optional)
sliced ripe olives (optional)

Cook beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until meat is browned, stirring until it crumbles; drain and return to skillet.

Stir soup and enchilada sauce into meat mixture. Spread 1/4 cup meat mixture onto each tortilla; sprinkle tortillas evenly with 1 cup cheese. Roll up tortillas and place, seam side down, in a greased 13X9X2-inch baking dish. Pour remaining meat mixture over tortillas.

Cover and bake at 350 for 20 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese; bake 5 more minutes or until cheese melts. Serve with sour cream and olives, if desired.

Spicy Sausage and Peppers Penne

2007-07-10T17:35:00.000-04:00

I love this dish!

Spicy Sausage and Peppers Penne
8 oz uncooked penne pasta
1 lb hot turkey sausage (about 4 links)
1 each: medium green, red and yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/4" strips
1/2 Cup coarsely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1 can (14.5oz) diced tomatoes in sauce, undrained
1 can (8oz) tomato sauce
2 t Italian seasoning
1/4 Cup (1oz) grated fresh Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.

Meanwhile, cook sausage over medium-high heat 14-16 minutes or until sausage is lightly browned and no longer pink, turning occasionally. Remove sausages from skillet; cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces and set aside. Cut bell peppers into 1/4" strips.

In same skillet, cook bell peppers, onion and garlic over medium heat 6-8 minutes or until peppers are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Add sausage, tomatoes, tomato sauce and seasoning. Cook and stir 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Place pasta in large bowl; pour sauce mixture over pasta, tossing to coat. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Lovers Favorite Cake

2007-07-10T13:49:00.000-04:00

This will be YOUR favorite too! Very good.

Chocolate Lovers Favorite Cake
1 (18.25 ounce) package devil's food cake mix
1 (3.9 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
2 Cups sour cream
1 Cup melted butter
5 eggs
1 t almond extract
2 Cups semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 10 inch Bundt pan.

In a large bowl, stir together cake mix and pudding mix. Make a well in the center and pour in sour cream, melted butter, eggs and almond extract. Beat on low speed until blended. Scrape bowl, and beat 4 minutes on medium speed. Blend in chocolate chips. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.

Apple~Oatmeal Cake

2007-07-10T13:47:00.000-04:00

Extra good on Autumn mornings.

Apple~Oatmeal Cake
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 t baking soda
1/2 t salt
1/4 t allspice
1/4 t cinnamon
1 Cup sugar
1 Cup quick-cooking oats, uncooked
1/2 Cup oil
1 egg
1 t vanilla extract
1 Cup apple, peeled and chopped
1/3 Cup nuts, chopped

Mix dry ingredients together in bowl. Add remaining ingredients; mixture will be quite thick. Pour into a greased 8X8 baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Makes 9 servings.

Maryland Crab Cakes

2007-07-10T13:45:00.000-04:00

I LOVE seafood and crab is one of my top favs so I'm always trying recipes for crab cakes. This is a keeper! I roll these in cracked cracker crumbs to keep their shape more.

Maryland Crab Cakes
1 pound fresh crabmeat
6-8 saltine crackers, finely crushed
1/2 Cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 T minced fresh parsley
1 1/2 t Old Bay seasoning
1/2 t dry mustard
1/2 t pepper
1/2 t Worcestershire sauce
2 T butter or margarine

DRAIN crabmeat, removing any bits of shell.

COMBINE crushed crackers and next 7 ingredients; gently fold crabmeat into mixture. Shape into thin patties.

MELT butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add crab cakes; cook, in batches, 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Garnish, if desired

Chocolate Eclair Cake

2007-07-10T13:44:00.000-04:00

My husband LOVES this cake!

Chocolate Eclair Cake
1 (16 ounce) package graham crackers
2 (3.5 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
4 Cups milk
1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (16 ounce) package prepared chocolate frosting

Line the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking pan with graham crackers. In a large bowl, combine the milk and vanilla pudding according to directions on box. Fold in the whipped topping. Spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers. Alternate the graham cracker and pudding layers up to the top of the pan. Cook the container of prepared frosting, uncovered in the microwave for 1 minute on half power. Pour over the top of the cake. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours before serving.

Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Sage Cornbread Crust

2007-07-10T13:42:00.000-04:00

When I saw Sara Moulton fix this recipe a few years ago, I HAD to try it that night. It is so good. I had never had the corn toaster cakes before and they make sure a good crust.

Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Sage Cornbread Crust
1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 corn toaster cakes, crumbled (these are made by Thomas')
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh sage (I used dried sage)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Pat pork dry and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over high heat until hot but not smoking, then brown pork, turning, about 4 minutes. Transfer to an oiled shallow baking pan. Add butter to skillet and cook garlic over moderate heat, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove pan from heat and stir in crumbs, sage, and salt and pepper, to taste. Spread mustard over pork and pat half of seasoned crumbs onto mustard, then sprinkle with remaining seasoned crumbs.

Roast in middle of oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted diagonally 2-inches into meat registers 140 degrees F, 10 to 15 minutes. (Check after 15 minutes to see if crumbs are getting too dark; if they are, tent loosely with foil.) Transfer to a cutting board, then tent loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes before slicing (temperature will rise to 160 degrees).

German Chocolate Bundt Cake

2007-07-10T13:40:00.000-04:00

Simple and decadent; I always ice it with vanilla frosting.

German Chocolate Bundt Cake
1 (18.25 ounce) package plain German chocolate cake mix
1 (15 ounce) container coconut pecan frosting
1 Cup water
1/3 Cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cake mix, frosting, water, oil, and eggs for 3 minutes using an electric mixer at medium speed. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until tested done when wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cake in pan on wire rack for 20 minutes before removing. Cool cake completely on wire rack.

Hot Chicken Strips

2007-07-10T13:33:00.000-04:00

For a 'kicked up' salad, top it with these yummies!

Hot Chicken Strips
1/2 Cup low-fat buttermilk
1/2 t hot sauce
1/2 C all-purpose flour
1/2 t paprika
1/3 t ground red pepper
1/2 t black pepper
1/4 t salt
1 lb chicken breast tenders
canola oil

Combine buttermilk and hot sauce in a shallow dish. Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup, level off with a knife. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (through salt) in a shallow dish. Dip chicken in buttermilk mixture, and dredge chicken in flour mixture.

Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add chicken; cook 4 minutes on each side or until done.

Mama's Hot Chicken Salad

2007-07-10T13:31:00.000-04:00

A family recipe and such a special comfort food.

Mama's Hot Chicken Salad
2 Cups diced cooked chicken
2 Cup cooked white rice
1/2 Cup mayo
3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
3 t lemon juice
1/2 t salt
1 small onion, chopped fine
1 can cream of chicken soup, undiluted

Combine all. Pour into flat, buttered baking dish. Cover with Rice Crispies. Bake 30-45 minutes in 375 degree oven.

Meatloaf with Fried Onions and Ranch Dressing

2007-07-10T13:09:00.001-04:00

To jazz up meatloaf, try this recipe! The fried onions are wonderful in it.

Meatloaf with Fried Onions and Ranch Dressing
1 1/2lb ground beef
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup ketchup
3/4 cup herb-seasoned dry bread stuffing mix
1/2 (1oz) package dry Ranch-style dressing mix
1 (6oz) can French-fried onions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.In a large bowl, combine all.

Shape into loaf and fit into lightly greased 9X5-inch loaf pan.

Bake, uncovered loosely with foil, at 350 degrees for50-60 minutes, or until meat is thoroughly cooked.

Diner Meat Loaf Muffins

2007-07-10T13:05:00.000-04:00

Even Ben will eat these!

Diner Meat Loaf Muffins
1 t olive oil
1 C finely chopped onion
1/2 C finely chopped carrot
1 t dried oregano
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, extra lean (raw)
1 Cup finely crushed saltine crackers (about 20)
2 T prepared mustard
1 t Worcestershire sauce
1/4 t freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet overmedium-high heat. Add chopped onion, chopped carrot, dried oregano, and minced garlic; saute 3 minutes. Cool.

Combine onion mixture, 1/2 cup ketchup, and theremaining ingredients in a large bowl.

Spoon the meat mixture in a large bowl. Spoon the meat mixture into 12 muffin-pan coated with cooking spray. Top each with 2 teaspoons ketchup. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until done. Let stand5 minutes.

Hawaiian Chicken Salad

2007-07-10T13:01:00.000-04:00

Oh this is yummy and so refreshing served on croissants.

Hawaiian Chicken Salad
1 large can pineapple chunks
2 cans canned chicken
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 Tablespoons Vidalia Onion Relish (near pickle relish in store)
1 teaspoon curry powder
Mayo, enough to your desired taste

Drain chicken and pineapple. Mix all ingredients together except mayo. Add mayo last to desired consistency is reached.

Lemon Brown Sugar Cookies

2007-07-10T03:05:00.001-04:00

I love making cookies over Christmastime with Ben. This is a great cut-out recipe. You can frost or just sprinkle with sugar and jimmies on top.

Lemon Brown Sugar Cookies
2 1/2 Cups all purpose flour
2 t baking powder
1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1/2 Cup packed brown sugar
1 t grated lemon zest
2 eggs

Sift together the flour and baking powder.

Cream together the butter, sugar, and lemon zest in a large bowl until light. Beat in the eggs, then stir in the flour mixture thoroughly. Place the dough on a sheet of plastic wrap and form the dough into a disk. Wrap the dough and chill it for at least 2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.

Bake for 5-8 minutes, until pale golden. Remove from the baking sheet and cool on racks.

Decorate as desired.

Nigella's Pasta with Meatballs

2007-07-10T02:58:00.000-04:00

If you find yourself in need of a good pot of spaghetti, you MUST try this recipe. It is more labor-intensive but sooooo worth it!!!

Nigella's Pasta with Meatballs
For the meatballs:
9 ounces of minced pork
9 ounces of minced beef
1 egg
2 T freshly grated parmesan
1 garlic clove, minced
1 t dried oregano
3 T fine bread crumbs
Good grind of black pepper
1 t salt

For tomato sauce:
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 t dried oregano
1 T unsalted butter
1 T olive oil (not extra-virgin)
24 ounces canned tomatoes in puree
Pinch sugar
Salt and pepper
1/3 Cup plus 1 T milk

For the meatballs:

Just put everything in a large bowl and then, using your hands, mix to combine before shaping into small balls. Place the meatballs on baking sheets or plates lined with plastic wrap and put each in the refrigerator as you finish them.

For tomato sauce:

Put the onion, garlic and oregano into the processor and blitz to a pulp. Heat the butter and oil in a deep, wide pan and then scrape the onion-garlic mix into it and cook over low to medium heat for about 10 minutes. Don't let the mixture catch; just let it become soft. Add the tomatoes and then add about 3/4 cup of cold water to the pan with the pinch of sugar and some salt and pepper and cook for about 10 minutes. The tomato sauce will appear thin at this stage, but don't worry, as it will thicken a little later. Stir in the milk and then drop the meatballs in one by one. Don't stir the pan until the meatballs have turned from pink to brown, as you don't want to break them up. Cook everything for about 20 minutes, with the lid only partially covering it. At the end of cooking time, check the seasoning, as you may want more salt and a grind or two more of pepper.

Makes enough to generously serve six people.

Mexican Shepherd's Pie

2007-07-10T02:52:00.000-04:00

The first time I made this was for Ben's cub scout potluck dinner and I went home with an empty pan! I've made it several times since and it's a winner. I only use 1/2 the water though, because more seems too watery. Also, I sprinkle 1 Cup shredded cheddar cheese over corn BEFORE the cornbread layer and I used 2 cornbread muffin mixes rather than one which is a must as 1 box would never cover it all. Enjoy!

Mexican Shepherd's Pie
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
garlic powder to taste
salt and pepper to taste
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (1.25 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
3/4 Cup hot water (I use 1/2 of this because it seemed watery if you add more)
1 (11 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained (Mexicorn is good in this!)
1 (8.5 ounce) package corn muffin mix
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (optional)
1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives (optional)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Place the beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until beef is evenly brown and onion is tender. Drain grease. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix in the tomatoes, and cook 5 minutes.

Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and continue cooking 5 minutes, until thickened. Transfer to the prepared baking dish, and top evenly with corn.

Prepare the corn muffin mix according to package directions. Spread evenly over the corn layer in thebaking dish.

Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until puffed and golden. Garnish with olives and cheese.

Munchy Chocolate Cookies

2007-07-10T02:46:00.001-04:00

These are quick and extra good eaten right out of the oven!

Munchy Chocolate Cookies
1 package devil's food cake mix (2 layer mix)
1/3 Cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

granulated sugar

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix cake mix (dry), oil and eggs in a large bowl with wooden spoon until dough forms (some dry mix will remain).
Shape dough into 1-inch balls and roll in sugar. Place about 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 8-10 minutes or until set. Remove from cookies sheet immediately to wire rack.
Makes 4 dozen, depending on size you make them!

Sausage and Tortellini Bake

2007-07-10T02:42:00.000-04:00

I came up with this concotion one night this Spring and it was VERY good!

Sausage and Tortellini Bake
1 package frozen tortellini stuffed with 3 cheese (or pick a variety you like!)
1 lb sweet Italian sausage, in casings
garlic powder
Italian Seasoning
olive oil
1 jar Classico Tomato and Basil sauce (or pick a variety you like!)

In a large skillet, pour about 2-3 turns of extra light virgin olive olive. Get hot and add sausage, out of casings; crumble and brown. Sprinkle amounts of garlic powder and Italian seasong as desired. Drain if needed.
Prepare tortellini in a medium saucepan as directed on package. Drain.
Add sauce to skillet of meat. Add cooked tortellini with just alittle of the pasta water. Pour into a casserole dish; top with 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 400 for 15 minutes.

Apple Cherry Tart

2007-07-10T02:36:00.000-04:00

This recipe is from a Pampered Chef cookbook and really good, especially if you like cherries like I do. The cherries addition to the apple just makes it a great combination.

Apple Cherry Tart

1/2 package refrigerated Pillsbury pie crust (1 crust) - this is the flat dough NOT crimped sided pie crust in freezer section

2/3 Cup all-purpose flour

1/2 Cup packed brown sugar

1/2 t cinnamon OR apple pie spice
1/3 Cup butter or margarine
1/2 C pecan halves, chopped
2 large Granny Smith apples OR apples of your liking
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie fillingcool whip to top

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Let pie crust stand at room temperature 15 minutes.

In bowl, combine flour, brown sugar and cinnamon. Add butter; blend thoroughly with pastry cutter. Chop pecans and add to batter. Mix well and set aside.

Roll pie-crust into a 13-inch circle on pizza stone. Peel, core and slice apples. Cut slices in half; layer apples evenly over crust to within 1 inch of edge of crust. Spread 1/2 cup (I used probably 1 cup) of pie filling over apples; sprinkle flour mixture over apples. (This was alot so I didn't use all of sugar mixture.) Fold outer edge of pastry up over filling to form a 1-inch rim.

Bake 30-35 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Remove from oven; cool slightly.

Serve warm with cool whip!